Allergen: Sesame seeds – what belongs to it, hidden sources and labelling
Sesame seeds is one of the 14 allergens that must be declared under Annex II of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 – including for non-prepacked food at a buffet. It covers sesame seeds (white and black), sesame oil, tahini (sesame paste). In Catering Cat the allergen has the code K.
What belongs to it?
- Sesame seeds (white and black)
- Sesame oil
- Tahini (sesame paste)
- Products thereof
Where is it often hidden?
- Hummus and baba ganoush (tahini)
- Rolls, bagels, burger buns
- Asian dishes and dressings with sesame oil
- Spice blends such as za'atar or gomasio
- Halva and confectionery
- Falafel and Middle Eastern sauces
Exemptions under Annex II
The regulation lists no exemptions for this allergen.
Tips for catering and buffets
- Hummus almost always contains tahini – that is, sesame.
- Sesame oil is not exempt from labelling.
- Ask your baker about sesame on the crust or in the dough.
How it appears on the buffet card
On the back of the card, the allergen is shown with its full name (“Sesame seeds”), as a short name (“Sesame”) or as the code “K” with a legend – depending on the display you choose in Catering Cat.
Frequently asked questions
Does hummus contain sesame?
Usually yes: classic hummus is made with tahini, a sesame paste.
Does sesame oil have to be declared?
Yes. The regulation lists no exemption for sesame oil.
All 14 allergens
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Start for freeThis page summarises the rules in general terms and is not legal advice. When in doubt, ask your local food authority.